This term, our approach to SEND provision has continued to evolve in line with our commitment to inclusive, neuro-affirming practice that recognises and celebrates the unique strengths of every child. We are proud to place all children’s individuality at the heart of what we do, creating an environment in Oak room that values difference and supports every child to thrive.
We remain focused on meeting children where they are, rather than expecting them to fit within a fixed structure. Our flexible, needs-led approach across the whole nursery ensures that all children in Oak room are supported in a way that honours their developmental journey, promoting a strong sense of belonging and emotional safety. This has included embedding practices that support trust, regulation and connection, providing the foundations for meaningful engagement in learning.
Early identification continues to be a key priority. Through close observation—particularly of differences in play—and strong relationships with families, we can respond swiftly and sensitively to emerging strengths and needs. This supports timely intervention and reduces barriers to learning. Our partnership with parents and carers is central to this work, and we value the trust and open communication that underpin these relationships. We look forward to inviting parents into Oak Room next term.
We are building an enabling environment in Oak room that encourages curiosity, supports autonomy, and nurtures the confidence of all children. This is supported by an inclusive curriculum designed to reflect diverse ways of thinking, communicating and interacting. We take a celebratory approach that values each child’s perspective and supports them to see themselves as competent, capable learners.
Oak Room is a dedicated space to support all children with a range of identified needs, including Communication and Interaction, Autism diagnoses, Physical needs and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges. The nursery have worked thoughtfully to identify children who would benefit from accessing this space, and have developed a timetable of bespoke, small-group sessions. These include themed activities such as food exploration, gross motor skills development, and sensory stories. These sessions are not standalone; we continue to think of ways to ensure they are being thoughtfully woven into the wider curriculum planning across all classrooms, supporting coherence and consistency in provision.
To ensure continuity and familiarity for children, we have identified a core team of staff drawn from all three classrooms to regularly lead sessions in Oak Room. This helps maintain strong relationships and supports children in feeling safe, settled, and secure when transitioning into the space. The presence of trusted adults also helps children engage more fully, knowing they are supported by people who know and understand them well.
Feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive so far. Families report that their children are coming home feeling more regulated, and they have expressed appreciation for how their child’s individual strengths are being recognised and celebrated. Parents feel reassured that their children’s needs are being understood and met in a nurturing and responsive way.
Our staff team has continued to develop skills and confidence in identifying and responding to a wide range of needs. Ongoing professional development and reflective practice are key to this, ensuring that provision is both evidence-informed and responsive to individual children. Staff are encouraged to view behaviour and communication through a neuro-affirming lens, supporting deeper understanding and more attuned responses. I am looking into training in intensive interactions and specifically ‘Making sense of Autism’.
Overall, our SEND provision in Oak room this term has prioritised connection over compliance and understanding over expectation. We are proud to create a nursery school environment where all children feel seen, valued and empowered to express who they are, and where diversity is not only accepted, but truly celebrated.
I look forward to updating you in December!
Jessie Whalley
SENDCo
Designated Teacher for Looked After Children